This week I learned that Milne Foods Ltd is to close with the loss of 60 jobs at its Syngefield site in Birr. This must be a difficult time for the Management, Employees, Suppliers and the wider community. I’m sure that this was not an easy decision to make, nor taken lightly.
I have spoken with Minister of State Neale Richmond who has responsibility for Employment Affairs within the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment. He assures me that all possible supports will be made available to Employees including information on entitlements and reskilling opportunities.
I understand from Management at Milne Foods that work is also underway to link suppliers with customers and to ensure that a future use is found for the premises.
I am available to support with any of these matters and have communicated this directly to Management and to my colleague Minister Richmond.
Employees are welcome to contact me through my constituency office pippa.hackett@oir.ie
As many know, this area of the Midlands has suffered significant job losses in recent years, and while I believe the future is bright and the opportunities are many, this news is deeply disappointing for those affected, and must serve to strengthen the resolve of the many individuals, agencies and Government Departments working to ensure that replacement employment opportunities are found.